Things to do this Christmas in Madrid 2013

Tips on how to make the 

most of Christmas in Madrid!

Thanksgiving is over and done with, the Christmas lights are on – Christmas has well and truly arrived in Madrid! The city is sparkling with festive spirit and excitement is in the air… For those lucky enough to be spending Christmas in Madrid, or those of you already in this beautiful city, AIL Madrid will tell you about the best things to see and do in Madrid this festive season!

Explore Madrid at Christmas

As we have already said, Madrid’s Christmas lights are one of a kind and not to be missed, and given that this year’s lights are more elaborate and eye-catching than ever before, there really is no excuse not to see them! This year the lights are in more streets than ever before, spreading out from the heart of the city in Sol to the Paseo del Prado, Calle Princesa, Ortega y Gasset and even further in a great sparkling web of lights… The city seems to have two personalities at this time of year: a sophisticated and historic European capital by day and a festive winter wonderland at night… If you’re in Madrid with little ones, we also heartily recommend the dancing mechanical bears in the Christmas display at El Corte Inglés, “Cortylandia”… A Christmas treat they’ll want to see over and over again!

The Christmas market in Plaza Mayor is just 

one of the many great markets in Madrid

AIL Madrid recommends exploring your favourite “barrios” on foot to enjoy the Christmas lights in all their glory, but if you are pushed for time, can’t decide what to see or simply don’t want to miss anything, the Navibus is ideal for you! The Navibus runs from a single stop in Plaza Colón from the 5th December until the 7th January, and costs 2€ per person (1.50€ for over 65s, and free for children under 7). But a word of advice: wrap up warm! Madrid may enjoy bright sunshine all year round, but remember that Madrid was built 655m above sea level - in December, at night, you will definitely need a coat!

Fun for everyone this Christmas in Madrid

Christmas markets are perfect for getting people in that Christmas mood, and Madrid is no exception. Christmas markets in Madrid are always centrally located, in places like Plaza Mayor, Plaza Callao and Plaza de España, and adored by tourists and locals alike. This also means that it is the perfect opportunity to people-watch and meet the locals – embrace that authentic Spanish lifestyle! The Christmas markets don’t sell food, but rather an endless array of Christmassy trinkets and presents, so you can buy your loved ones something unique from Madrid.

Why not go ice-skating in the 

heart of Madrid this Christmas?

Can you imagine anything more idyllic than ice-skating this Christmas on a crisp clear afternoon, in the heart of Madrid, surrounded by the beautiful architecture and glittering Christmas lights? Nor us! Madrid has several open-air ice rinks for everyone to enjoy every Christmas season, throughout the city. The Plaza de Luna rink is probably best suited for adults, but if you’re bringing kids to Madrid this winter, definitely check out the rinks in Goya and Callao. Don’t fret if you’re less than graceful on the ice – just enjoy the Christmas cheer, get back up and try again.

Have we convinced you that Christmas in Madrid is not to be missed? If you weren’t planning to come to Madrid one winter, book your Christmas accommodation now… and if you will be here this Christmas, you’ve hit the jackpot! Try and enjoy a little of everything this Christmas… there really is something for all tastes!

Merry Christmas!

PS: AIL Madrid will remain open during the Christmas holidays (no rest for us!) so if you fancy taking advantage of some free time, why not take the opportunity to take a Christmas Spanish Course in Madrid?